What’s Fresh in June: Apricots, Vidalia Onions and Key Limes

Taste what’s fresh this month. In June, tangy apricots, sweet Vidalia onions and tart Key limes are at their peak. Not only do all of them boast luscious flavor, each one can help boost your health. Read on and get ready to savor summer goodness.

Harvest to Table offers a glossary with information about different varieties of apricots, from “Apium” to “Wenatchee Moorpark,” and everything in between.

Did you know that one tiny apricot is bursting with 20 percent of your daily required vitamin A? According to the World's Healthiest Foods, these juicy little treats can help protect your eyes from cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (ARMD), the most common cause of vision loss. In addition, apricots contain lycopene, which may reduce the risk of prostate cancer.

Leave the oven off tonight and try this Rustic Apricot Tart recipe from Simply Recipes. It can be prepared on the grill, making it the perfect summer dessert. A dash of chipotle powder gives the dessert an unexpected kick.

Asparagus is also in season in many parts of the country. Learn more about this tasty, healthy vegetable.

“According to an old English Rhyme,” says an article on the National Fruit & Vegetable Program Web site, “the thickness of an onion skin can help predict the severity of the winter.” That may be myth, but the article offers the truth about onion selection, storage and availability.

Named after their birthplace in Vidalia, Georgia, these sweet, juicy onions may diminish the risk of blood clots and improve lung function. Read more about their cardiovascular benefits and role in cancer prevention on the Vegetariansim & Vegetarian Nutrition Web site.

Vidalia onions add flavor to dips, soups, salads, spreads, stir fry and more. The Vidalia Onion Committee has an archive of easy-to-follow recipes from cook-off winners and gourmet chefs. Unwind at the end of the day with a bowl of Chef Michael Tuohy’s Slow Roasted Vidalia Onion Soup.

According to Citrus Trees Online, legend says that Spanish conquistadors planted the first Key limes in St. Augustine, Florida. Also known as Mexican limes or West Indian limes, they bear white, fragrant blossoms and can be container-grown at home.

Enjoy the taste of summer while protecting yourself against rheumatoid arthritis, heart disease and cancer. The World's Healthiest Foods site says that in addition to high levels of Vitamin C, limes also contain flavonoids which may halt the division of certain cancer cells.

Although best-known for their starring role in Key lime pie, these fruits can be used in hundreds of other refreshing desserts and dishes. Try Martha Stewart’s recipe for Key Lime Coconut Bars at your next cookout.